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How long do you keep bills etc for?

10 replies

Mummysaysno · 13/03/2013 06:21

Been having a sort out...found lots of old utility bills/bank statements from 2008 which I binned. In my mind, I think keeping for three years is sensible...how long do other people keep bills for?

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midastouch · 14/03/2013 20:40

For a year, anything more than that would take up too much room!

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ToTeachOrNotToTeach · 14/03/2013 10:57

I thought we were supposed to go case inland revenue ever needed proof of something. I've got 3 years in my head. . . or if you need to challenge an energy supplier (we found out in one flat we were saying the wrong flats gas!)

We put regular bills into a box as they come, then when full date and put the box away. We've rarely needed to go through but also haven't had to meticulously file.

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BeCool · 14/03/2013 10:04

I've switched most bills to paperless now.
I used to keep for years but realised space is just too precious, so just one years worth, though I might scan anything I think is important to keep a record of.

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Mummysaysno · 14/03/2013 09:35

My DH would keep things forever...he came home after my clear out yesterday and broke out in a cold sweat seeing DHL envelopes I'd put in the bin...for him there is even a value in keeping the bill in the envelope....in a pile...next to another pile...

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ItsAllTLAsToMe · 14/03/2013 08:34

Oh no, I keep everything for ever. Imagine my house when I'm 90 .

I think what worries me is things like PPI claims as I imagine it would be easier if you have the paperwork. Saying that DH made a PPI claim without any, and it was all fine. Maybe I should re-consider...

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VestaCurry · 14/03/2013 02:21

3 years, but been switching over to paperless billing.

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Mummysaysno · 14/03/2013 02:20

Thanks all! At least no one said more than three years!

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noisytoys · 13/03/2013 14:00

Til bin day. I always have a bill dated in the last three moths for proof of address but don't see the need to keep them all

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Willow36 · 13/03/2013 13:53

I keep for six years but I'm not sure why - I don't tend to get any physical bills/statements anymore, they're all online. I'd imagine in the next few years, the pile of crap, I mean, paperwork, that constantly clutters my desk will disappear entirely.